"Witnesses indicated that he was driving more than 120 miles per hour," Carter said.

Vanauken’s car allegedly struck a 1994 Mitsubishi driven by a 42-year-old Ontario woman, who has not been identified. Police said she was observing the speed limit.

When traffic slowed, Vanauken‘s Acura slammed into the rear of the Mitsubishi, Carter said. The Acura continued east into the carpool lane, hit the center divider and landed on its roof, she said.

The female motorist sustained severe injuries and was transported to a local hospital, where she was pronounced dead, Carter said. Her two female passengers, ages 32 and 35, sustained minor to moderate injuries.

Vanauken, who was alone, had minor injuries and was taken to a hospital, Carter said. According to authorities, his blood alcohol level was over the legal limit. He faces charges including gross vehicular manslaughter, driving while intoxicated and causing the death of another, Carter said.